Honoring the Next Generation of Patriots
Community Appreciation
Tens of thousands of people have attended our ceremonies including the Secretary of the Navy, members of Congress, lieutenant governors, top general officers, decorated military veterans, business and community leaders, and the friends and families of the young men and women of Our Community Salutes.
Astronaut Chris Cassidy
Astronaut and US Navy Captain Chris Cassidy, speaking from the International Space Station, congratulates OCS student enlistees and their decision to serve in the U.S. Armed Services.
Major Scott Huesing, U.S. Marine Corps, Retired
Major Scott Huesing, U.S. Marine Corps, Retired, is most proud of leading those in his command in Echo Company, 2d Battalion, 4th Marines.
During his 24 years of service as a US Marine, he advanced through the ranks from enlisted soldier to a commissioned officer.
A Message of Thanks for
OCS Puerto Rico
*These videos are recorded in Spanish with English subtitles.
Victor Manuelle — Latin Grammy nominated American salsa singer.
Pedro Capo — Puerto Rican musician, singer, songwriter and actor.
OCS Ceremonies in the News
Our Community Salutes providing recognition and support of high school students, their parents, and their communities.
U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (HI)
Former U.S. presidential candidate and current U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, D-Hawaii speaking at the Inaugural OCS Hawaii Recognition Ceremony, May 2014. Gabbard is also a Major currently serving in the Army National Guard.
Edward C. Byers Jr
Master Chief Special Warfare Operator (SEAL), USN (Ret.)
Medal of Honor recipient MCPO Byers addressing the the young men and women of OCS of South Jersey in 2018. Mr. Byers, now retired from the Navy, received the Medal of Honor for service in Afghanistan in 2012.
Kenneth E. Stumpf
Command Sergeant Major, USA (Ret.)
Medal of Honor recipient Command Sergeant Major (Ret.) Kenneth E. Stumpf and during an OCS event at Fort McCoy, Wisconsin on Armed Forces Day.
OCS In the Media
OCS communities in the news throughout the country.
Appreciation From Across America
Doug from Virginia
Thank you for being part of the 5% of those willing to service their country as a member of the strongest and best military in the world. Your classmates will never understand the experiences you are about to have. Best wishes.
Jorge from Utah
Your noble service is greatly appreciated by many, many more of us than some divisive media talking heads will acknowledge. Thank you.
Jen from Massachusetts
Congratulations and thank you for supporting our great Country! Good luck In your future!
Joe from Tennessee (Sgt. USAF 69-73)
Thank you for stepping forward to serve in our armed forces. I salute each & every one of you.
Liza Garza from Texas
Congratulations Class of 2020 - very proud of you! Thank you all for your patriotism, your sacrifices and your selflessness to defend our country. I am free and will continue to be because of you. You will always be in my prayers. Parents and legal guardians - Thank You for supporting your son or daughter in their decision to serve our nation! You will never be alone - the community is behind you.
Dr. Gary from Tennessee
Each and every one of you are heroes. Your willingness to serve your country, especially during these challenging times, fills my heart with pride. Thank you and may God bless and be with you always.
Dianne from Nebraska
Thank you for your commitment to continuing the proud tradition of the United States military. Your dedication will help to insure our freedom.
Adam from Virginia
Only a small percentage of Americans have ever served in our military and we are all grateful that you have volunteered to defend this great nation. We are proud of you! Hooah!
CDR Snider, USN (Ret.) from Florida
Having served 24 years active duty in the US Navy, I commend your decision to enlist and wish you the best of luck in the years ahead! Thank you for choosing to serve your country and help to defend the freedoms we Americans enjoy!
Kristina from Pennsylvania
So proud of all of you. Thank you so much for your service. My military family and I are grateful for your decision to serve our country. Stay strong in these times of challenge and need. May God Bless you all and keep you safe.
Appreciation From Public Officials
Ray Mabus
Former Secretary of the Navy
“I am proud of the people here today that are stepping forward, willing to serve this country, willing to wear the uniform. You will represent the heritage, the history, the dedication and the skill that are the armed forces today.”
Ander Crenshaw
Former U.S. Representative (R-FL)
“These young men and woman are going to defend our country and take their place alongside some of the great heroes that have served before them, and they are to be thanked for that.”
Robert E. Andrews
Former U.S. Representative (D-NJ)
"These young men and women will join with many of their classmates in celebration of graduation. At a time when many of their peers are looking forward to pursuing vocational training or college degrees, they instead have chosen to dedicate themselves to military service in defense of our country. Thanks to the dedication of untold.”